In the News: November 2011

New Web site focuses on menhaden Saving Seafood, a non-profit organization based in Virginia, has unveiled a new Web site focused solely on menhaden (www.savingseafood.org/saving-menhaden.html).The Saving Menhaden Fisheries Web site is sponsored by the Menhaden Fisheries Coalition. The new site features news stories on the science, economic impact, state, federal and regional management and conservation of menhaden fishery.

Where do the females go?

Veteran’s Day lobster contest The Maine Lobster Promotion Council is sponsoring a Veteran’s Day lobster contest in concert with WLOB radio to honor Maine’s veterans. Any veteran, family member of a veteran, or active member of the armed services can be nominated to receive a complete lobster dinner for two from a participating restaurant. Once each week for five weeks a winner will be selected by radio host Ray Richardson. Then on Veteran’s Day, November 11, eleven names will be selected from all the names submitted. The eleven winners will receive a lobster dinner for four from a participating restaurant. MLPC executive director Dane Somers said that the contest was part of the “October is Lobster Month” promotional campaign. “It’s also a way to honor of veteran’s service to our country and in remembrance of Veterans’ Day,” he said.

Friendship Trap gets new owner Friendship Trap, located in Cushing, was sold to Chris Anderson of Virginia in October. The company was founded in 1977 by Pike Bartlett. Anderson brings lifelong experience in the manufacturing industry to the company. Friendship Trap president Mike Wadsworth will continue with the company in an advisory role. “As far as the customer base is concerned, they can expect more of the same regarding who they deal with here,” Wadsworth explained, noting that the same reliable team will continue on at Friendship Trap. Anderson stated, “It is my intention to continue providing the great customer service Friendship Trap is known for, and to ensure we continue to provide traps that are built the best, built to last, and built your way.”

Clear out the clutter Lobstermen can get rid of wire or wood traps, buoys, warp, nets, or other equipment at no cost. The Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation (GOMLF) will take in unwanted gear on Friday, November 18, in Kennebunkport at the old Highway garage lot at 47 Beachwood Avenue between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. All gear collected will be repurposed, recycled for metal scrap, or burned at a waste-to-energy facility. For more information, contact Laura Ludwig at 263-5300 or laura@gomlf.org. This project is part of a new fishing gear recycling project, the Maine Derelict Trap Prevention and At-Sea Recovery, funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)’s Fishing for Energy program.